Our K-8th learning cooperative is a parent-led alternative to traditional school systems. We offer two annual 18-week in-person meetings from August to December and from January to May. Our curriculum has a heavy focus on technology, art/design, and environmental science, and we offer grade-specific instruction in core subjects such as math, language arts, history, and science. What sets us apart from many traditional systems is that we approach these subjects from an interdisciplinary perspective.  Additionally, we offer scholars instruction in French, Swahili, and American Sign Language.

 

We work with families to create custom curriculums based on specific scholar needs and goals. Our instruction is designed for in-person instruction but is adjustable enough to meet virtual or hybrid instructional needs.  Throughout the two 18-week sessions we coach students through the creation of scholar portfolios that serve as physical evidence of learning.

​

​

Our program is designed in alignment with David Kolb's theory of Experiential Learning and approaches experiences from a relativist Constructivism ontology.

 

Educator and psychologist David Kolb described experiential learning as the “process of learning from experience that shapes and actualizes developmental potentialities” (Kolb, 2015, p. 167). One main assertion that this learning model embodies is that development does not occur before learning but with learning. This development is achieved using four learning tenets:

 

1. Learning by doing

2. Learning through real-life contexts

3. Learning through projects

4. Learning through problem-solving 

 

When approached through a constructivist lens, experiential education allows learners to generate their own relevance and personal meaning from experiences.

​

Apply for Independent Education Co-op

​